As a child, I remember being fascinated by the story's of my Uncle Charlie Swicegood on Buck Seaford Road. His hands were wrinkled, the map of his long life you could see in the lines beside his eyes, yet his memory of December 7, 1941 was a clear as day. As a 12 year old boy, I listened to him intently. He described the horror was yet remembered the resolve in the hearts of America. I feel certain my relationship with him is what caused me to value the American soldier.For the rest of my life, I read about the war in Europe and the battles of the Pacific. When I visited Arlington the first time, all the years of interest became like cured concrete. My resolve to thank American soldiers became my commitment. Later, when I took my family to the beaches of Normandy, France, the pounding rising tide rose in me a deeper appreciation for the blood, the sacrifice that at one time laid upon these sands.
In 2011, when I was asked to serve on the board of directors for the Triad Flight of Honor, I was eager to help take the 1300 World War II veterans to see their monument; a monument that was built
59 years after victory was declared.
One of the off shoots of the Triad Flight of Honor was a luncheon honoring the WWII guys/gals. Friday, March 23, 2018, we will have once again, a small thank you to these guys. A BBQ sandwich and fries from Deanos BBQ in Mocksville is a simple way, in the twilight of their lives to say thank you.
If you know of a World War II veteran, please bring them to have lunch with their fellow servants. Lunch will be provided for the veteran and their guardian.
Expect to see heroes. Expect to get a lump in your throat. Expect to take away a memory you will talk about 20 years from now when you will say, I sat among heroes who helped save America.
A special thank you to Dwight Sparks and the Davie County Enterprise. They have graciously sponsored each event. Also to Kathy Miller, with One Shot Photography who will be present at the event with camera in hand.
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